Wool socks in summer? Why merino wool actually keeps your feet cool
We always have to smile a little at the puzzled faces when we tell people we wear wool socks in the middle of summer too. “Wool in summer? Won't my feet just melt?!” It is the most logical thought in the world. After all, we associate wool with thick winter jumpers, hot chocolate and bleak autumn days.
Today we are going to break that myth once and for all. Because believe it or not: merino wool is quietly the ultimate material for warm summer days. Here is why.
Nature's air conditioning
Merino wool is an 'intelligent' material. The fibres of the Merino sheep are far thinner and finer than those of an ordinary sheep. This gives them a unique, crimped structure that traps still air.
In winter that layer of air works like an insulating blanket, holding on to your own body heat. But in summer it works exactly the other way round: it forms a barrier against the heat from outside and carries your excess body heat away at speed. It literally works like natural air conditioning for your feet.
No more clammy, sweaty feet
Cotton socks and synthetic sneaker socks have one big drawback in the heat: they absorb moisture, hold on to it and turn wet and clammy. That is not just uncomfortable, it also creates friction (hello blisters!) and unpleasant smells.
Merino wool can absorb up to 30% of its own weight in moisture without feeling wet. The fibre moves sweat straight away from your skin and lets it evaporate into the open air. Your feet stay dry and fresh all day, however high the temperature climbs.
No odours (really)
And what about that typical smell after a long summer day? With merino wool it simply never gets a chance. The bacteria that cause sweat odour love to cling to smooth, synthetic fibres. The rough, natural structure of merino wool, combined with its natural lanolin, means bacteria cannot settle in. So you can take your shoes off at the end of the day with complete confidence.
Discover our summer thirst-quencher: The Low sneaker socks
Especially for the warm months we developed The Low sneaker socks. For this low-cut version we use an extra fine, lightweight knit of our NATIVA™ merino wool. That makes them wafer-thin and highly breathable, while still offering that familiar softness and protection against blisters. They disappear perfectly into your favourite summer sneakers, quietly getting on with the job of keeping your feet fresh.
So go on, challenge us this summer. Swap your cotton socks for a pair of Merino Love sneaker socks. We promise you: your feet will never want anything else.
